Three more Cumbrian firms have been awarded cash to invest in new technologies.
The backing, from Made Smarter, will allow the firms to accelerate their digital transformation.
Among the latest wave of companies securing grants are Trekk Vans, a campervan conversion specialist, based in Carlisle; System Hydraulics, a manufacturer of hydraulic components, based in Carlisle; and One-O-Five Precision, a precision CNC manufacturer, based in Dalston.
Their awards come as Made Smarter has reached a major milestone – backing North West companies to invest £25m in new technologies.
It has seen 330 businesses secured £7.1m matched funding from the Government-funded, industry-backed initiative over the last six years, adopting technologies as diverse as sensors, robotics, 3D printing and artificial intelligence (AI).
These companies have put £18m of private sector investment towards 379 technology projects which are forecast to create over 1,700 new jobs – an average of five each, and upskill 3,200 existing roles – almost 10 per business. What is more, the investments in technology and people are set to add £267m to the economy over the next three years.
In Cumbria, these include 48 companies who have invested almost £2.8m into 51 projects, creating 134 new jobs and upskilling 240 roles, while boosting the county’s economy by £26m.
Made Smarter’s funding panel, which comprises leading figures from across the worlds of business, government and academia, offers grants of up to £20,000 towards new technology and digital tools.
One-O-Five Precision is investing in new inspection technology.
Richard Pratt, managing director, said: “Working with Made Smarter has been transformative.
“This investment has significantly enhanced our inspection procedures, allowing us to achieve greater accuracy and efficiency in quality control. This improvement is crucial as we continue to grow our reputation in the nuclear, defence and aerospace sectors, where precision and quality are paramount.”
Donna Edwards, director of the Made Smarter Adoption Programme in the North West, said: “These technology projects will have a tremendous impact on individuals, businesses, the sector and society. They will boost efficiency, productivity and growth, creating new jobs and upskilling existing roles, all while shifting the dial on creating a more sustainable approach to manufacturing.
“I welcome these companies into the Made Smarter family. Alongside the hundreds who have already reaped the rewards of the adoption programme, we have now invested over £25m into the digital transformation of the sector.
“Celebrating milestones is important. It permits my fantastic team to take stock of the achievement and then commit to improving the services we offer to continue the Made Smarter mission.”
As well as grants, Made Smarter offers SME manufacturers access to funded support including digital transformation workshops to create a digital roadmap, impartial and expert technology advice, and leadership and skills training.
For more information, visit www.madesmarter.uk
